Nikos Tornaritis appointed as special envoy for the Cyprus issue in Asia and Africa

On September 16, 2026, the Cypriot Council of Ministers officially appointed Nikos Tornaritis as the Special Political Envoy of the President of the Republic for the Cyprus issue, specifically targeting regions in Asia and Africa. The appointment was made by President Nikos Christodoulides as part of a strategic initiative to enhance diplomatic outreach and state advisory capabilities.

Under this new mandate, Mr. Tornaritis will conduct targeted political contacts in Asian and African countries to address matters related to the Cyprus issue. He will perform these duties without a salary, working under the direct instructions of the President and in coordination with the Minister of Foreign Affairs. His selection is attributed to his extensive parliamentary experience and his long-term involvement in the Cyprus issue.

Mr. Tornaritis has a history of international institutional engagement, including thirteen years as head of the Cypriot delegation to the Asian Parliamentary Assembly, where he also served as Vice President. Additionally, he held the position of head of the Cypriot delegation and Vice President of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe. Following the announcement, Mr. Tornaritis expressed that the resolution of the Cyprus issue remains a collective national responsibility and pledged his commitment to the state's primary diplomatic goals.